Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Giving Love

"Love is above all, the gift of oneself."  - Jean Anouilh

In the book, Love is Letting Go of Fear by Gerald G. Jampolsky, M.D., he tells of a patient of his that came to him with severe depression.  This person was so in despair he believed he had nothing to live for.  Dr. Jampolsky asked him if he knew of anyone that needed help such as meals cooked, deliveries, a visit.  The man mentioned that there was an elderly woman in his building who lived along and didn't get out much.  He knew she didn't have much money and noticed she didn't ever have visitors.  Dr. Jampolsky's prescription to this man was to go to this woman and give to her.  To bring her meals, to go to the grocery for her, to bring her books from the library and to spend time visiting with her.  
The man came back the next week transformed.  No longer feeling in such deep despair he regaled Dr. Jampolsky with his wonderful experience.  The man realized that in helping another he forgot all about his own despair.  Not only that, but he made a connection with another human being and changed 2 lives in the process.

During this time - both the time of the holidays and a time that may be challenging to some financially - more than ever we need to find ways to give.  Give whatever it is you have to give, such as money, donations, time or attention.  And Give from your heart.  Know that giving Love is the most important contribution you can make to this world.

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